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What is the defining factor of human beings? What makes humans human? Or are we just glorified mammals, another warm blooded species?
Traditional Jewish literature definitely views human beings as separate from, and higher than, the animal kingdom. But it uses a seemingly unusual euphemism to refer to humans: Humans are referred to as “medaber” (literally, “speaker”). Interesting, isn’t it, that the defining factor of humans seems to be the fact that we can speak? Why not focus on our intelligence? That would seem more logical. Why is speech granted such overriding significance? On a basic level, words, our capacity for speech, is extremely powerful; it’s how we connect with others and how we influence others (or get influenced by them). Using positive or negative words can have an effect on our mood. I’m sure by now you’ve come to acknowledge the fallacy of the schoolyard rhyme “Sticks and stones will break my bones but words will never hurt me.” We are all aware of the power words have to hurt or heal. But there’s more to it. Speech is our most profound way of partnering with G-d in creation. The Torah describes G-d creating the world through speech. Our speech, similar to G-d’s speech, can create too. When we use positive words to interact with our family; when we ensure that the terms we use when thinking about ourselves are good and encouraging, we create a positive reality. Speech can transform someone into a new person, speech can inspire confidence and creativity. Conversely, speech can have terribly detrimental results when mishandled. This week’s Torah portion (which by the way, is named “Emor”-“speak”) begins with an example of positive speech and ends with an example of negative speech. Speech is extremely powerful as it has the ability to create and impact someone in a positive manner. It’s also a very dangerous tool because it can lead to devastating results.
Our speech has the ability to create the reality that we inhabit. Be sure to speak in positive terms to others and use only positive when speaking to yourself - before long you’ll be well on your way to creating a better environment.